What Should a Groom Wear for a Wedding Abroad?

One advantage of a wedding abroad, especially one by the sea, is that the groom can often dress more casually than at a traditional wedding. Sometimes trousers and a shirt are all you need. At certain beach ceremonies you might even go barefoot. But always check the rules of the place where you’re getting married.

If a groom wants to make an effort with his outfit, it should complement the bride’s dress. Above all, though, he needs to feel comfortable. Choose your clothes with the destination and climate in mind.

Take a wedding in Italy in February. For a ceremony indoors, a suit might be a perfectly comfortable choice. On a beach in Mauritius in the same month, that heavy suit could leave you sweltering.

Lightweight, Breathable Fabrics

The last thing you want on your wedding day is to be worrying about the heat, sweating through your clothes and seeing it all in photographs you’ll keep for the rest of your life. And it’s not just about the pictures — feeling too hot is no way to enjoy your wedding.

At a wedding in Greece, one groom chose a suit made from an unforgiving synthetic fabric. He was soaked with sweat right down to his thighs. For the photographs, he could hardly pose anywhere except behind the bride.

Weddings by the sea, particularly on the beach, often have a fresh, relaxed atmosphere. A heavy formal suit might not be the best fit. But if you choose a lighter, breathable fabric such as linen, there’s no reason to rule out a waistcoat or jacket.

You can wear that extra layer just for the ceremony and a few photographs, then take it off. It can add a little variety to the pictures too.

One effortlessly stylish combination is long trousers, a contrasting belt and a white long-sleeved shirt. For a wedding by the sea, relaxed elegance might mean long trousers or smart shorts with a short-sleeved shirt, or one with the sleeves rolled up, worn untucked. Some grooms choose a T-shirt instead. In that case, the cut and fabric make all the difference if you don’t want it to look too casual with your trousers.

Dress Codes and Long Trousers

If you’re getting married at an indoor ceremony venue in Croatia or Italy, find out in advance what clothing is appropriate for that particular place. Shorts, a T-shirt or flip-flops may be perfectly fine on the beach but not right for the ceremony.

In Mauritius, dress codes can vary between hotel restaurants. Some ask men to wear long trousers for a more formal dinner, while others allow smart Bermuda shorts. Check the rules of the restaurant where you’ll actually be dining. If you plan to wear shorts for your ceremony, it’s sensible to pack at least one pair of long trousers for the rest of your stay.

And if a few friends are joining you as groomsmen, why not agree on a colour or style so you all look good together?

Shoes

For a wedding by the sea, lighter shoes usually make sense. Canvas shoes, leather flip-flops or sandals can all work, provided they’re right for the setting.

You might even walk barefoot for a beach ceremony. It’s worth trying the sand beforehand, though: it can be surprisingly hot, and sharp stones may be hidden in it. If you’re planning photographs with the bride in your arms in the sea, consider bringing water shoes. Stones and uneven ground beneath the surface can easily make you lose your balance. And don’t step on living coral.

If you’re marrying in Europe during the winter, you can usually choose much the same clothes and shoes as you would for a winter wedding at home — allowing for the actual weather, of course.

Accessories

Accessories can finish off the groom’s look. If you’re wearing your shirt or T-shirt tucked into your trousers, a belt can bring the outfit together. A watch or bracelet can look great too, but remember they’ll be clearly visible in the wedding photographs, especially during the exchange of rings. And if you want to forget about the time completely during your wedding and honeymoon, you can always leave your watch at home.

A hat or sunglasses can give the groom a cool look, particularly in photographs taken after the ceremony. Bright sunshine can make it uncomfortable to pose without sunglasses. One little trick is to close your eyes briefly and open them just before the photograph is taken, so you’re not squinting into the sun. For the ceremony itself, go with what suits the setting and feels comfortable.

Don’t forget your nails, either — well-kept hands look better in those close-up ring photographs. And there’s nothing wrong with using a touch of powder (or anti-shine primer) if you’d rather your face didn’t shine in the pictures.

Above all, we hope you feel fantastic on your wedding day, perhaps a little like James Bond, and proud to be marrying the wonderful woman by your side.